Pathogen Removal Mechanisms in Macrophyte and Algal Waste Stabilization Ponds

Waste stabilization ponds are recognized as the solution to domestic wastewater treatment in developing countries. This is because the method is cheap, construction is easy, and no  highly-skilled labour is required. In developing countries, the objectives for wastewater treatment require an emphasis on pathogen removal, since most diseases and deaths in these areas are caused by poor sanitation. An understanding of the mechanism involved in pathogen removal will allow improvements in technology, maximizing performance. This study addresses the mechanisms involved in faecal bacteria removal in both macrophyte and algal-based waste stabilization ponds.